Plate-making machine.



M. A. DROITGOUR.- PLATE MAKING MACHINE. urmcuzox rim; we. e, 1909.

Patented May 31, 1910.

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M. A. DROITUOUR.

PLATE MAKING MACHINE.

APPLIOATION FILED AUG.'6, 1909.

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M. A. DROITCOUR.

PLATE MAKING MAGEINE.

APPLIOATION FILED AUG.6, 1999. 960,006,- Patented May 31, 1910.

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M; A. DRGITGO UR.

PLATE MAKING MACKENZ- APPLICATION FILE; AUG. 6, 1909.

Patented May 31, 1910.

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' Patented May 31 1910.

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960,006 Patented May 31, 1.910.

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M. A. DROITGOUR.

PLATE MAKING MAGHINE.

APPLICATION FILED AUG. 6, 1909.

Patented May 31, 1910.

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INVENTOR Attorn y M. A. DROITGbUE.

PLATE MAKING MACHINE.

APPLICATION FILED AUG.6, 1909.

969 0068 Pa en ed May 31, 1910.

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Eigli WITNESSES "run sranr in ros.

MICHAEL A. DROI'ICGUB, OF CHICAGO, ILLINC'IS, ASSIGNOR. TO MIEHLE PRINTING PRESS AND MANUFACTURING COMPANY, OF CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, A CORPORATION OF ILLIIN 01S.

PLATE-MAKING MACHINE.

scones.

Application filed August 5, 1909. Serial No. 5113M.

panying drawings, which form part of thisspecification.

This invention a novelmachine for making printing plates of plastic material,

such as celluloid, and the objects of the in vention are (1) to provide a machine capa bio of producing such plates perfectly and rapidly; (2) to prevent formation of any imperfections on the printing surface of the plate by reason of air bubbles or gas trapped or formed between the surfaces of the matrix and plastic plate prior to or during the formation of the printing surface; to provide means for forming air and gas tight seals between the outer margins of the plate and matrix during the plate forming operation, and also between the outer margins of the frisket and the pressure and cooling chamber during the. plate forming operation; (4) to provide means for supporting the preliminarily heated plate prior to the ressing operation; (5) to provide means or rapidly cooling the plate after the plate has been pressed against the matrix and conformed thereto; and (6) to provide means whereby the various operations on the plate can be automatically controlled by the machine itself, so that when the matrix and material are properly placed in the machine it will produce a plate automatically, and deliver the same therefrom in perfect condition.

In the accompanying drawings Ijhave illustrated one practical form of the appara-' tus, not attempting to give accurate proportions of parts therein however; and I will describe the invention as embodied in said machine and summarize in the claims the parts and combinations of parts for which protection is desired;

In said drawings: Figure 1 is a side elevation of the complete machine. Fig. 2 is a top' plan view thereof. Fig. 3 is an enlarged detail longitudinal section showing the plate in process of formation. Fig. l is a section on line 4-4, Fig. 3, looking in the direction of the arrows. Fig. 5 isa horizontal longitudinal section through the upper cooling plates. Fig. 6 is a detail plan view partly broken of the matrix blank and frisket in position for sealing. Fig. 7 is a detail sectional view showing the lower presser plate with the frisket removed. Fig. 8 is a detail transverse section on line 8-8, Fig. 3. Fig. '9 is a detail section enlarged on line 99, Fig. 8. Fig. 10 is a detail view of the ram valves. Fig. 11 is an enlarged detail transverse sectional view showing the position of parts during the formation of a plate. Fig. 12 is an enlarged detail longitudinal section of the same parts. Fig. '13 is a-detail sectional view of the vacuum controlling valves. Fig. 11': is a detail view of the gearing for operating the frisketcarrying chains. Fig. 15 is a detail view of the vacuum valve cam connect-ions.

The machine comprises a main frame, of any suitable construction, having a shaft 1 at one end carrying a pair of sprocketwheels l over which run sprocket chains 1 that extend parallel, and longitudinally of the machine, to and over sprocket wheels 1 journaled on studs 1 attached to brackets 1 adjust-ably secured to the frame, as indicated in Figs. 1 and 2 of the drawings, so that each of the chains l 'can be kept under proper tension. These sprocket chains 1" are prospecification of LettersPatent. Patgnt gd May 31, 1910.

vided at suitable intervalswith pins 1 for engagement of a matrix carrier or frisket 2, which can be laid upon and between the upper parallel runs of chains 1*, to be moved thereby into position between the fixed and movable pressing members and '3 that are arranged respectively above and'below the upper runs of the chains 1. The upper runs of chainsl" are preferably supported by channel irons 1 mounted on brackets 1", as indicated in the drawings, to prevent the chains sagging under the weight of the frisket.

The upper member of the press comprises a hollow casting 8, which is preferably rec-. tanguiar in plan, mounted upon upright posts or rod 3 attached to the side frames is supported horizontally above the upper runs of. the chains 1*. On the under side a of the upper member 3 is a'hollow casting 3 which is used both for heating and cooling the plates, as hereinafter explained.

The lower press member comprises a hollow casting 4 which has a recess or chamber 4 in its upper side, approximately corresponding in area to the size of the largest impression surface to be formed; orthe inside of the frisket frame 5' the recess 4 is used successively as a vacuum chamber, a pressure chamber, and a cooling chamber, during the process of forming the plates, as hereinafter described; said recess 4 being closed air-tightly during the process of making a plate, by means of the frisket frame, the plate and matrix, and the bottom of the casting 3 as hereinafter explained.

The casting 4 is supported upon the movable member 4? of 2-, ram of any suitable construction. As indicated in the drawings, the static" y member 4 of this ram is fixed to the base of the machine, and fluid can be admitted into the working chamber between the members 4 4, by a pipe 4*, as indicated in Fig. 3 of the drawingspfrom any suitable supply of fluid under pressure controlled by valves 4" and 4" (Fig. 10), so that theplate 4 can be raised and lowered, as hereinafter explained. The upper margin of the casting 4 around chamber 4 is provided with gaskets 4 which are adapted to contact with the under side of the frisket frame 2 when the latter is brought into position over the casting 4, as shown in Figsill and 12.

The frisket 2 comprises a frame 2 which is preferably rectangular, and is of a width approximating the distance between the upper runs of the chains 1"; said frame 2 is provided with perforated ears 2 on its sides which are adapted to engage with the pins l on chains l see Figs. 1 and 6, and enable the frisket to be moved by the chains between the press members. Diiferent sized friskets may be provided for different sized plates. Within the frisket frame 2 is secured a wire netting 2, in any suitable manner, preferably lying slightly below the up per surface of the frame, so that said net-ting will not be embedded in the material of the plate when the latter is formed. This wire prevents the celluloid or composition when hot from sagging improperly or dangerously before pressure is applied thereto, and also prevents its creasing when the pressure is applied. The frisket frame 2* is shouldered 1162 to limit the size of the material 'used for the plate, which material should be cut of a size to come neatly within the shoulder 2 of the frame, ,This shoulder ortion is provided with several small are leli'grooves, indicatediat 2 in the drawlugs, which will be covered by the margins sconce of the plate of material C when the latter is in position: on the 'frisket; and when the press members are closed," as in Figs. 3, 11 and 12, the soft material of the plate C Will fill these grooves and form an air-tight closure'between the under side of the plate 0 and the frisketframe 2 so that the material will be prevented when under the later formative pressure from squeezing out over the edge of the frame, and so that the pressure fluid will be confined within the pressure chamber 4. i

A plate 0 of suit-able material, such as celluloid, preferably preliminarily heated, is placed on the frislret, as indicated in Figs. 3, 6, 9, 11 and 12, over the screen 2;then a suitably formed matrix M is placed upon the frisket over the celluloid plate. The plate C is positioned by the shoulder-s2 in the frame; and the matrix M is positioned by the usual setting Springs 2 attached to the edges of the frislret frame. Then the chains 1 are actuated so as to move the frisket with the plate and matrix into position between the upper and lower pressure members 3 and 4 and the chains stop. The

members 3 and 4 are then closed upon the frisket, as indicated in Figs. 2 and 8. In closing, clamping ressure is applied to the frisket frame, and the margins of thematrix M which lie on the upper surface of the frisket frame, and also to the outer margins of plate G, as indicated at 2' Figs. 11 and 12. An air-tight closure is made between the frisket frame and the upper side edges of casting 4 by the gaskets 4. A further airtight joint is made between the lower side of the plate C and the frisketframe by the grooves 2. An air-tight joint is also made between the frislret frame 2 and the under side of the casting 3 by the compression of the outer margins of the matrix M between the frisket frame and casting 3".

Preferably the plate 0 is heated to a semiplastic condition before it is placedon the frisket. By previously heating the plate I am enabled to tightly close the press members upon the matrix and plate as described, and to thereafter form the printing surface on the plate without injury to the matrix,

as the plastic plate will readily conform to the surface of the matrix without injury thereto, which it would not do if the plate was not plastic.

When the press members are closed, as indicated in Figs. 3, 8, 11 and 12, the recess 4 will be closed air-tightly on its upper side, and it then forms a closed chamber which is used successively as a vacuum chamher, a pressure chamber and a cooling chamher. The upper presser member 3 may be continually heated by live steam'which 1S admitted thereto from any suitable generator through inlet pipe 3 andthe casting scopes 3 is heated sufficiently by conduction to maintain plate in a plastic condition during the formation thereof into a printing plate.

, on their under side by the matrix M,-see

Figs. 3, l1 and 12. These channels 3 communicate at one or more points with passages 3 formed in the walls of casting 3 (F igs. 11 and 12) whichpassages connect with a suction pipe 5; said suction pipe being in turn connected with any suitable exhausting apparatus (not shown) capable of producing a high vacuum. Air is alsoexhausted from between the matrix M and the plate C through slits min the matrix (see Figs. 6 and 11) which slits may be readily made in the matrix by cutting it with a sharp knife or instrument, as indicated in Fig; 6 of the drawings. These slits being adapted to register with the rooves or channels 3 in the under side 0% the casting 3" .(see Fig. 11) and consequently when vacuum is produced in the channels 3 there will be a suction of air or exhaustion of air be-' tween the surfaces of the matrix M and the plate C. Such suction will draw plate 0 into close contact with the matrix and will prevent formation of pockets of air or gas therebetween. Air may also be exhausted from the chamber 4 (when the parts are closed) by means of a pipe 5, see Figs. 6, 7, 11 and 12, which communicates with the end of a bore 4 in the end of the casting A} below the bottom of chamber P, which bore 4 is in turn connected with the chamber 4* by means of small perforations 4? connecting with a transverse channel 4 at the end of the chamber a as shown.

The exhaust or vacuum pipes 5, 5, are preferably connected to opposite inlets of a three-way valve 5 (Fig. 13) the common outlet of which is connected by a pipe 5 .to the exhausting apparatus or vacuum producer. The valve 5* is preferably a threeway valve and its plug 5 is so formed that it. can be shifted so as to cut off communication between pipes 5 and 5 before closing communication between pipes 53. and 5 Valves of this kind are well known and any suitable construction thereof may be employed.

Preferably suction is continually mainr and owing to the vacuum tained above and between the matrix .M and plate C during the operation of forming the printing surface on the plate. Communication between pipes 5 and 5' is cut oil before the actual formative pressure on the plate begins. The vacuum in chamber 4 is then destroyed by admitting air thereto through a'passage 4, see Figs. 7 and 9, which is opened and closed at the proper time as hereinafter described. The passage 4 communicates with a passage 2, in the frisket.

frame, which leads upward to a point above the screen 2. A packing ring 4 may be placed at the end of the passage 4 so as to make an air-tight joint between the parsages 2 4, when the parts are under pressure. The vacuum is established primarily above and below the plate C as above described in order to insure the removal of all air from between the plate and the matrix. If the vacuum was applied only to the upper side of the plate the atmospheric pressure in chamber l below the plate would look the plate to the matrix and might produce air pockets therebetween; but by forming the acuum below at the same time that it is formed above, any such action is prevented and the plate C is brought fully and closely against the matrix; and when the valve 4: is opened danger ,of formation of any air pockets has been eliminated.

\Vhen thev valve P is opened, air enters comparatively gradually, into the chamber above the plate 0 the latter is held evenly and uniformly against the matrix, and the matrix is brought uniformly into contact with the under surface of the casting 3", and the vacuum being maintained above and between the matrix and plate C the formation of any air pockets therebetween is prevented. Thereafter the valve 4: is closed and fluid under pressure-preferably air-is admitted into the chamber 4 through pipe 6 which connects with the bore 4: at the rear end of the chamber 4*, see Figs. 2, 3, 6, 7, and 12; said pipe 6 communicating with a common pipe 6. The pipes 6 and 6 are really drain pipes, but are also used for the purpose of conducting pressure fluid, or air, into the chamber 4. The pressure fluid is supplied to pipe (3 by a pipe G connected to a suitable reservoir or supplier (not shown) and pipe 6 is controlled by a valve 6, which can be operated automatically as hereinafter described. A hand valve 6 may be put in pipe 6* (Fig. 4) at a convenient point to enable the pressure to be out off when the automatic valve is being repaired or packed.

A very high pressure, say 200 pounds to the square inch, is maintained in chamber 4* during the formation of the. printing surface on the plate during which time of course all other outlets or inlets to this her P, and a admitting water into the casting 3 and.

chamber 4:.

- Water is admitted into the hollow casting 3 through a pipe 7 which connects with a pipe 7, see Figs. 4 and 5. Water can be simultaneously supplied to the chamber P by a pipe 7 also connected with pipe 7. A

valve 7 is interposed between the pipes 7 and 7 and the pipe 7 The pipe 7 is preferably connected with a water reservoir 'or tank (not shown) in which a pressure is maintained corresponding to that supplied by pipes 6 This valve 7 is preferably a two way valve, of any suitable construction WlllCll will close communication between pipes 7 and-7 simultaneously with the cutting off of the water. The valve 7* may be mechanically operated as hereinafter described. The pipe 7 is preferably very much Smaller than pipe 7 The water is preferably admitted into chamber 4*" while the. air pressure .is maintained therein. Valve 6 should be closed before or simultaneously with the opening of the water valve 7 so as to hold the pressure against the plate. In order to cause the water to flow properly into chamber 4*, the small pet valve 4 is opened and the water flows into chamber 4? as fast as the air is allowed to escape therefrom-through valve lflso that the pressure is still maintained against the underside of the plate C.

The air is removed from chamber i through channel 2 from a point above the screen 2, or at the highest point of the chamber, so that no air can be trapped under the bottom of the plate, and the water is admitted directly and fully against the bottom of the plate and there will be no air to hold it out of contact therewith and the plate will be chilled uniformly. i

In order to further expedite the flow of water into the chamber 46 and the coolingv chamber 3, the outlet valve S in the main drain pipe 8 is opened; this drain pipe 8 is connected beyond the valve 8 by joint 8* with the pipe 6*; and pipes '6 are connected, beyond valve 8, by a pipe 8 with the chambar 3', see Figs. 3, 5 and 12, so that casting 3 will be drained into pipe 8 through pipes 8, 6, 6 and 8 (see Figs. 3, 1 and 12). A check valve 8* is placed in pipe 8'" to prevent air or pressure fluid entering casting when admitted into pipes 6 as above described. \Vhen the drain valve 8 is opened there will be a decrease of pressure in chamcorrespondingly more rapid flow of water thereinto, and 1nto casting 3 fillin the chambers and cooling the plate rapi y. This finishes the operation of making the plate. The Water vali'e 7* is then closed; and the drain valve 7" fully opened, and the chambers 3 and P quickly emptied. The ram exhaust-valve 1", see Fig. 10, is then opened and the member l is lowered, leaving the frisket with the formed plate resting upon the chains 1, or channelirons. The chains are then operated to move the frisket with the completed plate outward from between the pressure members; and the perfected plate can then be removed.

The machine as shown is adapted to opcrate automatically without the'necessity of the operator performing any manual operations other than placing the frisket, containing' the matrix and plateof plastic material, on the chains 1", and then pulling the start-- ing lever of the machine.

As shown in the drawings, the partsare all controlled from one transverse main shaft A, which may be driven, for example, (see-Fig. 2) by means of a Worm-gear a meshing with a worm a on a counter-shaft a which is suitably journaled in the frame and is driven by beveled gears a 5 from a counter-shaft B, on which is a loose pulley b that may be belted to any suitable source of power, and may be locked to the shaft 13 by a suitable clutch I), when desired. Clutch 6 is operable by a lever 6 connected by a rod b to a manually operable controlling lever 6 by which the operator can throw the clutch into or out of engagement at will.

The shaft 1 carrying the sprocket wheels 1, may be driven from shaft A by means of a gear 1 on shaft 1, driven by an intermediate train of gears-1 from a gear 1 on a counter-shaft l which is provided with a delay gear 1" meshing with a gear 1"" on shaft A having a delay face as indicated in Fig. 14. Gears 1" and 1 are so proportioned that at the proper time gear 1" will be rotated to trausm1t sufficient movement to the chains 1 to cause them to more the frisket 2 from the receiving position, shown in Fig. 1, into pressing position between the press members 3 and 1, as shown in Fig. 8; and then therotation of gear 1" is delayed, and the chains 1 remain at rest until after the completion of the plate forming operation. Then the impression members are separated and the gear 1" is again" actuated so as to operate the chains 1 and move the frisket from between the pressing members 3 and 1 out to the delivery position.

When the frisket reaches the delivery position the clutch b is automatically disengaged, and the machine stopped, by means of a-pivoted cam Z) mounted on a cam disk 1 1 attached to the shaft A, and which cam at the proper moment engages with a tooth b on a lever b, pivoted to the frame at one end, and connected at its other end by a link- 22 to the lever 22*, see Figs. 1 and 3. The

- throw the clutch'b into engagement and :comes to a stop,the operator can, by throwing lever b to the right, clear the tooth from the cam and sprirw b can then throw the earn 6 upward, as indicated in Fig. 3, and the operator can then shift lever b to again start the machinewhen he so desires.

' suitable manner.

' valve l, and the ram descends letting the 7 tion the vacuum valve will be entirely closed a After the'chains 1* have been operated so as to move the frislzet into position between the pressing members 3 and l, the inlet valve 4; of the rain is opened auton'iatically, by means of. a cam is" attached to shaft A; which cam-is adapted to operate an oscillating lever t, which is connected by a rod 4 to the arm 4, see igs. 1, 2 and 10,- so as to open the valve at the proper time. The particular construction of this valve is Well known and forms no part of the present invention. Tie lever l may be held up against the cam P by means of a spring 4 as indicated in the drawings, or. in other The cam 4 is so formed as to holdtheram inlet valve 4" open and maintain [the seal during the plate forming operation. After .such operation is completed, and before the chains are again moved to shift the frisket; the cam l permits lever 4 to be moved by the spring i so as to shut oil? the pressure and open the relief pressing members separate.

pressing members have been closed by the ram; the, vacuum valve 5 is operated by a rod 5 attached to an arm 5 on the valve plug 5?, and engaging a suitable cam 5 onthe, shaft A, see Figs. 2 and 15. Cam 5 is so proportioned that at the proper time communication will be established between pipes 5 and 5 and the vacuum apparatus to produce vacuum in chamber r and between the :matrix'and plate as described; and thereafter, prior to the admission of pressure fiuidto the chamber r, the plug 5 willjbe shifted so as to close communication be tween pipes 5 and 5", as above described; and at the end of the plate forming operaand held closed until another plate is in position to be operated upon.

erable by a rod 6* connected to an arm 6 on the valve stem, and .to a lever 6, which is provided with a roller engaging a cam 5 on shaft A, see Figs. 2 and 3'. The lever is held against the cam and returned to the valve closing position by means of a spring 6 The cooling water-valve 7 is operated by p j injuring the latter. The air or pressure fluid Valve 6 is op-5 a rod 7 connected to an arm 7 on. the valve stem, and to a lever 7 having a roller engaging a cam 7' on the shaft A, the lever being controlled by a spring 7 The cam is shaped so as toopen and close the water valve at the proper time in the operation of the machine as above explained.-

The drain valve 8 is operable by a rod 8? attached to an arm 8 on the valve stem, rod 8 being connected to a lever 8 engaging a cam 8 on shaft A; said lever being .controlled by a spring 8 seeFigsl, 2 and The cam S is adapted to cause the opening and closing of valve 8 at the proper times, and is so proportioned as to first cause a preliminary opening of valve .8, and then fully open it.

The pet-cock or valve 4. is operable at the proper times, by means of a rod '14: .attached to an arm 14" on the valve stem and to a lever 1 pivoted on the frame,-and engaging a cam 14 on shaft A, see Figs. 1,2 and 9. Cam 1%" is so shaped as to cause the opening and closing of-valve 4 at the proper time and in the manner above described.

Obviously race cams might be employed instead of surface cams, and the valve connections could be varied, provided the essential mode of operation of the machine is retained. In some cases one or inore'of the valves could be operated by hand, but 1 prefer to make the machine entirely automatic,

so as to avoid the possibility of any improper After the frlsltet has been brought tothe position shown in Figs. 3 and 8 and the opening or closing of the valves during the operation of the machine and which might resultin spoiling the plate.

It is important in practically operating this machine in the process of making printing plates to preliminarily *heatthe material of which the plate is to be made to a semiplastic condition before subjecting ,itto the operation of the machine. F or this. purpose I provide the trisket, so that a sheet of proper material can be placed thereonand subjected in a suitable oven to a preliminary heating suiiicientto soften the material to a plastic condition before itenters the machine. This preliminary heating is "importantas it enables the machine :to be operated very rapidly Without injury to the matrix, so that a large number-of impressions can be taken from thematrix Without Operation: A plateccan begprodnced on this machine during each rotation of the 0 shaft A. Thisshar't may be driven oon ti-nuously i'or one complete rotation after it is once started; in other vords it is not necessary to stop the machine after the plate is in position for pressing until the plate is' completed.

After the fri-sket with the. heatedplastic material and matrix is placed on the chains the "operator throws-clutch b into-engagementwith the pulley b and the cycle'of op erations begin, and is as follows: (1) The chains are shifted to carry the frisket 2, with the heated plate C, between the pressing members 3 and 4, and then come to a stop (2) the ram inlet valve is then opened by-action of cam 4t, and the member 4 is forced upward toward and against the member 3, clam ing the frisket and material as above described; during the rise of the ram, the drain valve 8 is fully closed by the operation of cam 8'; (4:) the vacuum valve 5 is then opened by action of cam 5,' and a vacuum is produced above the matrix, and between the matrix and the plastic plate, and in chamber 4 as described;,(5 then the vacuum valve 5 is partly shifted, y cam 5, so as to close communication between the suction or vacuum apparatus and the chamber P; (6) then the petrcock or valve 4. is opened for a short period of time by the action of cam 14 so as to relieve the vacuum in chamber 4?, and then valve 4 is closed; I ig7) then the air valve 6 is opened admitting uid, preferably air, under high pressure 5 into the chamber 49, as above described; and

the plastic late C is forced with great pressure upward against the matrix, and obtains its printing surface therefrom; (8) then the air-valve 6 is closed; and as, or preferably just before, the air valve 6 is closed the water valve 7 is opened to supply water to the chamber 4 and casting 3 (9) then the ,valve 4 is again opened to slightly release the air pressure in the chamber at, as above described, and allow water to flow in under pressure; (10) then the drain valve 8-is partly opened, allowing a large volume of water to flow rapidly mto the chamber 4*, and casting 3 so as to cool or chill the plate quickly on both sides. It will be noted that the plate is cooled on the under side by direct contact of water therewith through the screen 2. (11) Then the vacuum valve 5 and the water su ply valve 7* are closed; and drain valve 8 tully opened, permittin the chambers 4* and 3 to empty; (12) then the ram pressure valve is closed and its relief-valve opened, and the casting 4; descends" freeing the frisket, which remains supported on the irons or chains; and" (14:) as soon as the frisket is clear the chains are again actuated and move the frisket forward and out from between the presser members to the point of delivery; (15) finally the shaft A having about made one complete rotation the cam b throws clutch I) out of gear and the machine stops.- The machine remainsidle until again started in operation by the operator shifting the con- .60 trolling lever I) to re'ngage clutch b with pulley b. The aforesaid cycle of operations lsreneated ,for and during each rotation of the shaft A.

'Ihe pi e connections between the fixed 55 and move le parts .ofthe apparatus should be either flexible or telescopic, as indicated in the drawings, so that the press may be opened or closed as described without injur ing the pipes.

Having described my invention what I 7 claim as new and desire to secure by Letters Patent thereon is; r

1: In a matrix forming m'achine, the combination of means for pressing a plate against a matrix to receive a printing surface therefrom; with means for exhausting air from between the matrix and the plate, and at the back of the late, prior to the pressing operation, and fibr continuing suction between the plate and matrix during 5 the pressing operation, and means for relieving the vacuum beneath the plate prior to the pressing operation.

2. In a matrix forming machine, the combination of means for pressing a plate 5 against a matrix to receive a printing surface therefrom; with means for exhausting air' from between the back of the matrix and its support,fand from between the matrix and the plate, and at the-back of the plate, prior to the pressing operation, and for continuing suction between'the plate and matrix, and the matrix and its support during the pressing operation, and means for relieving vacuum beneath the plate prior to the pressing operation. I

In a machine for forming printing plates from plastic material, the combination of press members, one of said members having a recess, means for securing a matrix 190 and plate between said members and over said recess to close the latter, means for introducing pressure fluid into the closed re-- cess to force the plate against-the matrix, and means for thereafter'introducing cool-, ing fluid into said recess directly against the plate to chill the late.

4. In a machine or forming printing plates from plastic material, the combination of press members, one of said members having a recess, means for securing a matrix and plate between said members and over said recess to close the latter air-tightly, and

its

-means for exhausting air to produce a partial vacuum'between the plate and matrix when m position between said members ,with means for introducing pressure fluid 'into the closed recess to force the plate against the matrix, and means for there'-. after introducing cooling fluid into the closed recess to chill the formed plate.

5. In a machine for forming printing plates from plastic material, the combination of a' pressure chamber, means for securing a matrix and plate in said chamber, and means for exhausting airbetween the plate and matrix when in position in said chamber; with means-for introducing pressure fiuid into the chamber to force the plate against the matrix, and means for introducagainst the .25

ing cooling fluid into said chamber tochill the plate after the pressing operation.

6. In a machine for forming printing plates from plastic material, the combination of opposed press members, one of said members having a recess, means for securing a matrix and plate between said members and over said recess to close the latter, and means for exhausting air between the plate and matrix when in position between said member; with means for introducing fluid into the closed recess to force the plate against the matrix, and means for there after introducing cooling fluid into said recess to chill the formed plate.

7. In an apparatus for forming printing plates, the combination of opposed press members, a frisket, a matrix and plate adapted to be placed beti 'een means for causing the members to clamp and inclose the frisket securely therebetween, and means for admitting fluid pressure into the inclosure and beneath and plate to force the latter against the matrix.

8. In an apparatus for forming printing plates, the combination of opposed press members, a frisket adapted to be placed between said members, a matrix and plate interposed between the frisket and one member, means for causing the members to clamp the frisketsecurely therebetween, and means for admitting fluid pressure into the frisket beneath and against the plate to force the latter against the matrix.

In a machine for plates, the combination of opposed press members, a frisket, a matrix and plate adapted to be placed between said members, means for causing the members toclamp frisket, matrix and edges of the plate securely therebetween, means for exhausting the air between the plate and matrix, and between the matrix and adjacent press member prior to the final pressing operation, and means for admitting fluid pressure beneath the plate to force the latter against the matrix.-

1-0. In an apparatus for forming printing plates, the combination of opposed-press members, a frisket adapted to be placed between said members, a matrix and plate interposed between one sideofthe frislret and forming printing one member,.means for causing the members to clamp the frislret securely therebetween, means for producing a partial vacuum between the plate and matrix and between the members, a frisket matrix matrix and adjacent pressing member prior to the final pressing operation, and means for admitting fluid pressure into the frisket beneath the plate to force the latter against the matrix.

In a. machine for forming printing plates; the combination of opposedpress and plate adaptsaid members,

ed to be placed between said members, and means for causing the members to clamp the 'frisket securely therebetween; with means for admitting fluid pressure beneath the plate to force the latter against the matrix, and means for jintroducing cooling fluid to chill the plate after the pressing operation.

12. In a machine for forming printing plates, the combination of opposed press members, a frisket adapted to be placed between said members, a matrix and plate interposed between one side of the frisket and the adjacent member, and means for causing the members to clamp the frisket' securely therebetween; with means for exhausting air from between the. plate and matrix, means for admitting under the plate to force the latter against the matrix, and means for thereafter introducing cooling fluid to chill the plate.

13. In an apparatus for forming printing plates, thecombination of opposed press members, a frisket matrix and plate, and means for causing the members to clamp the frisket, matrix and plate securely therebetween; with means for producing partial Vacuum between the plate and matrix and between the matrix and adjacent press member prior to the pressing operation; means for admitting fluid pressure beneath the plate to force the latter against the matrix;

and means for introducing cooling fluid to.

chill the plate after the pressing operation.

14. In an'apparatus for forming printing plates, the combination of opposed press members, a frisket adapted to be placed between said members, a matrix and plate interposed between one side of the frisket and fluid pressure the adjacent member, and means for causing the" members to clamp the frisket securely therebetween; with means for producing partial vacuum between the plate and,

matrix, and bet-ween the matrix andadjacent press member prior to and duringthe pressing operation; means for admitting fluid pressure into the frisket beneath the plate to force the latter against the'm'atrix; and means for introducing cooling fluid to chill the plate after the pressing operation.

15. In a machine .for making printing plates from plastic material, the combina tion of opposed press members, one of said members havinga recess in its operating" face, a frisket adapted to be placed on the recessed member, a matrix interposed between said frisket and the other, press memher, the plate of flexible material from which the printing plate is to be formed being' placed on the 'frisket opposite said matrix; with means for causing said memhere to clamp the frisket therebetween, and

means for introducing fluid under pressure into plate.- r I) 16. In a machine for making prmtmg said recess and directly against the plates from plastic material, the combination of opposed press members, one of said members having a recess in its operating face, a frisket, adapted to be placed on the recessed member, having an opening communicating with the recess, a matrix interposed between said frisket and the other press member, the plate of flexible material from which the printing plate is to be formed being placed on the frisket opposite said matrix; with means for forcibly press: ing said members together to clamp the frisket therebetween, means for exhausting air from between the matrix and plate prior to the pressing operation, and means for introducing fluid under pressure into said recess so as to force the plate against the matrix. -1

17. In' a machine for making printing plates from plastic material, the combination of opposed press members, one of said members having a recess in its operating face, a frisket adapted to be placed on the recessed member having an opening communicating with the recess in said member, a' matrix interposed between said frisket and the other press member, the plate of flexible material from which the printing plate is to be formed being placed on the frisket opposite said matrix; withmeans for forcibly pressing said members together to clamp the frisket therebetween, means for exhausting air from between the matrix and plate and from between the back of matrix and adjacent press member prior to and during the ing fluid under pressure into said recess so as to force the plate against the matrix.

18. In a machine for making printing plates, the combination of opposed press members, a frisketadapted to be clamped between said members, a 'matrix interposed between said frisket and one member, the plate of flexible material from. which the printing plate is to be formed being placed on the frisket opposite said matrix; with means for forcibly pressing said members together to clamp the frisket and matrix therebetween, means for introducing fluid under pressure into said frisket and directly against the plate to force the latter against the matriX,means for exhausting the pressure fluid, and means for admitting cooling fluid to chill the plate.

19. In a machine for making printing plates, the combination of opposed press members, one of said members having a recess in its operating face, a matrix interposed between said members, the plate of flexible material from which the printing plate is to beformed being placed over the recess and opposite said matrix; with means for causing said members to clamp the ma-' trix and plate therebetween, means for introducing fluid under pressure into said re cess so as to force the plate against th'e'matrix, and means for. exhausting fluid from the recess and admitting cooling fluid thereinto to chill the plate. p i

20. In a machine for making printing plates, the combination of opposed *press members, one of said members having a recess in its operating face, a frisketadapted to be placed on the recessed member, amatrix and the plate of plastic material interposed between said frisket and the other press member; with means for forcibly compressing said members together to clamp the frisket, matrix and plate therebetween, with means for producing a partial vacuum between the matrix and plate and between the back of matrix and adjacent pressing member prior to and during the pressing operation, means for exhausting air in the recess prior to the pressing operation; means for introducing fluid under pressure into said recess so as to force the plate against the matrix, and means for thereafter admitting cooling fluid to-chill the plate.

21. In an apparatus for forming printing plates, a press member having grooves in its face adapted to be covered by. the matrix,

and means for exhausting air from said grooves prior to the plate forming operation.

22. In an apparatus for forming printing plates, the combination of a matrix, a press member againstwhich the matrix is adapted to be placed having grooves in its face i adapted to be covered by the margins. of pressmg operatlon, and means for introducplates, a press member having grooves in its .1

face adapted to be'covered by the matrix, and means for exhausting air from said grooves prior to the pressing operation, in combination with a matrix having incisions in its margins adapted to register with the grooves in the press member whereby air may be exhausted from. between the matrix and plate prior to the forming operation.

24:. A frisket for the purpose specified having a'shoulder upon which the material for the plate is supported, said shoulder having minute. grooves adapted to form an air-tight seal when the friske'tand plate ar clamped in the press.

25; A frislret for the'purpose specifiedhaving shoulders upon which thematerial' for the plate is supported when the frisket and plate are in the press, and a screen suspended between the shoulders to support the central portion of the plate and through wlhich the operative fluid can contact the p ate. "-26. A frisket for the purpose specified comprising a rabbeted frame upon which the material for the plate is supported, said rabbet having minute grooves adapted to form an air-tight seal when the frisket and plate are clamped in the press, and a screen suspended between the rabbet to support the central portion of the plate and through which the operative fluid can contact the plate. 1

27. In apparatus for forming printing plates, the combination of opposed press members, a frisket interposed between said members and having a screen adapted to support the material for the printing plate prior to the formation thereof, and a matrix; with means for causing the members to clamp the frisket and matrix tightly therebetween, and means for admitting pressure fluid between the pressing members and through the screen against the back'of the plate to force the same against the matrix.

28. In apparatus for forming printing plates, the combination. of opposed press members, a frisket interposed between said members and having a screen adapted to support thematerial for the printing plate prior to the formation thereof, and a matrix; with means for causing the members to clamp the frisket and matrix tightly therebetween, means for admitting pressure fluid between the press members and through the screen against the back of the plate to force the same against the matrix. means for exhausting the pressure fluid, and means for admitting chilling fluid directly against the back side of the plate while the plate and matrix are locked together.

29. In apparatus for forming printing plates, the combination of opposed press members, one of said members having minute channels in its face adapted to be covered by. the matrix, tween said members and having a screen adapted to support the material for the printing plate prior to the formation thereof, and a matrix interposed between the frisket and grooved press member; with means for causing the members to clamp the frisket and matrix, means for exhausting air from the said grooves, and means for admitting pressure fluid between the press members and through the screen against the back of the plate to force the same against the matrix.

30. In apparatus for forming printing plates, the combination of opposed press members, one member having minute channels in its upper side adapted to be covered by the margins of the matrix, a frisket interposed between said members and having a screen adapted to support thematerial for the printing plate prior to the format-ion thereof, and a matrix interposed between the frisket and grooved press member; with means for causing the members to clamp the back ,With means for exhausting air a frisket interposed be-- frisket and matrix, means for exhausting air from the said grooves, means for admitting pressure fluid between the press members and through the screen against the back of the plate to force the same against the matrix, means for exhausting the pressure fluid, and means for admitting chilling fluid directly against'the back of the plate While the plate and matrix are locked together.

31. An apparatus for forming printing plates, comprising opposed press members, a plate and matrix interposed between said members, 'a screen adapted to support the material for the printing plate prior to the formation thereof; and means for causing the members to clamp the frisket and matrix tightly therebetween; with means for exhausting air from between the plate and matrix, atthe back of the matrix, and at the of the plate prior to the of the pressure fluid,.and for maintaining suction between the plate and matrix and at the back of the matrix during the pressing operation, and means for admitting pressure fluid through the screen against the back of the plate to force the same against the matrix.

32. In apparatus for forming printing plates, the combination of opposed press members, a frisket interposed between said member-sand having a screen adapted to support the material for the printing plate prior to the formation thereof, a matrix, and means for causing the members to clamp the frisket and matrix tightly 'therebetween; from between the plate and matrix, at the back of the matrix, and at the back of the plate prior to the application of the pressure fluid, and for maintainino suction between the plate and matrix and at the back of the matrix during the pressing operation; means for admitting pressure fluid through the screen against the back of the plate to force the application same against the matrix, and means for exl'iausting the pressure fluid and admitting,

chilling fluid directly against the back of the plate and while the locked together.

'33. In apparatus for the'manufacture of printing plates, the combination of press members, a frisket adapted to support the matrix and plate; endless carriers for the plate and matrix are frisket, automatic means for operating said carriers so as to move the frisket between said press members, allow it to remain dur ing the pressin operation, and thereafter remove the fris et and formed plate from between the press members.

'34. In apparatus for the manufacture, of printing plates, the combination of press members, a frisket adapted to support the plate, endless carriers for moving the his et, means for operating said earners to move the frisket between said press members, allow it to remain during the pressing operation, and thereafter remove the frisket and plate from between the press members; with mechanism for automatically operating said carriers, means for operating the press members, and means for causing the formation of the plate while the frisket is between the press members.

35. In apparatus for forming printing plates, the combination of opposed press members, a screen interposed between said members and adapted to support the material for the printin plate prior to the formation thereof, an a-rnatrix opposite the screen; with means for admitting fluid under pressure through the screen against the back of the plate to force the same against the matrix. v

36. In apparatus for forming printing plates, the combination of opposed press members, a screen interposed between said members and adapted to support the material for the printing plate prior to the formation thereof, and a matrix opposite the screen; with means for causing the members to clamp the edges of the matrix and plate tightly, and means for admitting pressure fluid between the press members and through the screen against the back of the plate to force the same against the matrix.

37. In apparatus for forming printing plates, the combination of opposed press members, a screen interposed between said members and adapted to support the material for the printing plate prior to the formation thereof, and a matrix opposite the screen; with means for admitting fluid under pressure through the screen against the back of the plate to force the same against the matrix; means forexhausting the pressure fluid, and means for admitting chilling fluid directly against the back side of the plate while the plate and matrix are locked together. I

38. In apparatus for forming printing plates, the combination of opposed press members, one of said members having a recess, a screen interposed between said members and adapted to support theplate prior to the formation thereof, and a matrix above the plate; with means for causing the mem bers to clamp the margins of the matrix and plate tightly, means for exhausting air from between the matrix and plate, and means for admitting pressure fluid into said recess and through the screen against the back of the plate to force the same against the matrix.

39. In apparatus for forming printing plates, the combination of opposed press members, one member having a recess adapt-- ed to be covered. by the matrix, a screen interposed between said members and adapted to support the plate prior to the formation thereof, and a matrix interposed between theplate and opposed press members; with means for causing the members to clamp the margins of the matrix and plate, means for admitting pressure fluid into said recess and through the screen against the back of the plate to force the same against 1 the matrix, means for exhausting the pressure fluid, and means for admitting chilling fluid into said recess while the plate and matrix are locked together.

40. In an apparatus for forming printing plates, the combination of a press with a plate and a matrix having incisions in its margins through which air can be exhausted from between the matrix and plate when they are in the press.

41, In an apparatus for forming printing plates, the combination of a press, a screen adapted to support the plastic plate in the press prior to its formation, and through which the pressure fluid can operate against the plate while in the press; and means for admitting pressure fluid to the press.

42. In an apparatus for forming printing plates, the combination of a press, a frisket frame, and a screen in said frame adapted to support the plastic plate while in the press prior to its formation, and means for admitting pressure fluid through the screen directly against the plate while in the press.

43. In a plate forming machine, the combination of means for pressing a plate of plastic material against a matrix to receive a printing surface therefrom; with means for exhausting air between the opposed faces of the matrix and the material prior to the pressing operation, and for continuing suction between the matrix and material while the latter is forcibly pressed against the matrix, and means for applying liquid pressure to the back of the material to form the plate.

4A. In a machine for forming printing plates from plastic material, the combination of press members, one of said members having a recess, means for securing a matrix and plate between said members and over said recess to close the latter, means for producing partial vacuum between the opposed faces of the plate and matrix, when in position between said members, prior to' and during the formative operation; and means for introducing pressure fluid into the closed recess to force the plate against the matrix.

45. In an apparatus for making printing plates from plastic material, the combination of means for pressing a plate against .the matrix by directly applied fluid pressure, and means for cooling the plate by admitting cooling fluid directly against the back of the formed plate after it has been pressed and while locked to the matrix. p

48. In an apparatus for making printing plates from plastic material, the combine- In testimony that I claim the foregoingas heated plate against the matrix by directly two Witnesses. applied fluid pressure; with means for cool- 5 ing the formed plate by admitting cooling MICHAEL DROITCOUR' fluid directly against the back of the formed Witnesses: plate; and means for also applying cooling JAMES R. MANSFIELD, fluid indirectly to the back 0 the matrix; I L. E. JVITHAM.

tion of means for pressing a preliminarily my own, I afiix my signature in presence of 19 

